By Bree Davis, former Admissions Advisor
I didn’t go to Auburn. I didn’t roll Toomer’s Corner as a student. I never rushed to class across the concourse or took a final in Haley Center (though I have gotten lost in there a time or two).
But today, I walk the campus as a staff member at Auburn University, and I know this place has become part of who I am. You don’t have to hold a degree from Auburn to believe in it or to love it.

I’m proud to be a two-time graduate of Troy University, where I earned both my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Troy gave me a strong academic foundation and the start of my professional journey. I was heavily involved in Greek life as a student, which opened the door to my very first job in higher education. What started as campus involvement quickly turned into a career calling that included supporting students, creating access, and helping young people discover what’s next.
Coming from a university with about 13,000 students, I’ll admit I was nervous about transitioning into a larger institution. I wondered if I’d ever find the same close-knit community and sense of family at Auburn that I had at Troy. But I was quickly and wholeheartedly proven wrong. Auburn’s sense of connection, pride, and support runs deep. Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or staff, you’re welcomed as family here. I’ve felt it every day since joining the university.

Now, as I transition into my new role in the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM), I feel incredibly grateful. Grateful to continue doing meaningful work at a place that values its people, its purpose, and its promise to students. Grateful to be part of a community that doesn’t just talk about family but also lives it.
My connection to Auburn doesn’t come from where I studied, but from the values I see lived out here every day and the values that are captured in The Auburn Creed:
“I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn…”
In admissions, I see the impact of hard work every day. Auburn attracts students who are driven and those who take the time to build strong applications, pursue academic excellence, and seek out opportunities to grow. Whether it’s preparing for a competitive major or meeting early deadlines for scholarship consideration, Auburn rewards students who take initiative and invest in their future.
“I believe in education…”
I didn’t sit in Auburn’s classrooms, but I’ve seen how Auburn students are challenged to think deeply and solve real-world problems. I also see how faculty and staff support that journey every step of the way. In my own professional path, I’ve grown through mentorship and meaningful relationships, which is proof that education doesn’t stop at graduation.
“I believe in honesty and truthfulness…”
Trust is essential in admissions and advising. Students and families come to us with big questions and even bigger dreams. I do my best to meet them with honesty, compassion, and clarity. That kind of authenticity builds confidence, and it’s something Auburn does incredibly well.
“I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body, and a spirit that is not afraid.”
Working in higher education, especially in recruitment, takes creativity and courage. It means believing in the power of possibility, even when the path ahead feels uncertain. Auburn fosters that kind of boldness not just in students, but in the staff and faculty who support them.
“I believe in Auburn and love it.”
That final line (and my personal favorite) resonates more deeply with me every day. Auburn is not just where I work. It’s where I’ve found purpose, people, and pride. It’s where I’ve grown. And now, in my new role within COSAM, I’m excited to keep growing and to help students do the same.
I didn’t attend Auburn, but Auburn has become a part of me. And every day, I’m grateful to be part of this incredible community.
War Eagle.
